paradox Definition
- 1a seemingly absurd or self-contradictory statement or proposition that when investigated or explained may prove to be well founded or true
- 2a situation, person, or thing that combines contradictory features or qualities
Using paradox: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "paradox" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
This statement is a paradox.
Example
The paradox of tolerance is that a tolerant society must be intolerant of intolerance.
Example
The grandfather paradox is a hypothetical situation in which a time traveler goes back in time and kills their own grandfather before the conception of their father or mother.
paradox Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for paradox
Antonyms for paradox
Idioms Using paradox
a situation or person that is mysterious, complex, and difficult to understand
Example
The new CEO is a paradox wrapped in an enigma; nobody knows what he's really thinking.
a situation that seems to contradict itself or be impossible, but is actually true
Example
It's a paradoxical situation: the more you try to relax, the more anxious you become.
a statement that appears to be self-contradictory or absurd, but may actually be true
Example
The statement 'less is more' is a paradoxical statement, but it makes sense in certain contexts.
Phrases with paradox
the idea that having too many choices can lead to anxiety, indecision, and dissatisfaction
Example
The paradox of choice can make it difficult to make decisions, especially when there are so many options available.
Example
The bootstrap paradox is often used in science fiction stories, where time travel is involved.
a paradox that arises when a statement refers to itself, such as 'this statement is false'
Example
The liar paradox is an example of a self-referential paradox.
Origins of paradox
from Greek 'paradoxon', meaning 'contrary to expectation'
Summary: paradox in Brief
A 'paradox' [ˈpærədɒks] is a statement or situation that appears to be self-contradictory or absurd, but may actually be true. It can also refer to a person or thing that combines contradictory features or qualities. Examples include 'The paradox of tolerance,' which states that a tolerant society must be intolerant of intolerance, and the 'grandfather paradox,' a hypothetical situation in which a time traveler goes back in time and kills their own grandfather before the conception of their father or mother.
